There is a risk every time you're out on the road. Protect yourself from these common motorcycle crashes by being a proactive driver.








Left Hand Turns Collisions
In these cases, the opposite driver makes a left hand turn at an intersection in front of an oncoming motorcyclist. The driver may not see the biker, or they misjudge the speed and distance at which the biker is coming toward them.

Tips:

• Slow down at intersections.
• Anticipate the direction and speed of oncoming drivers.
• Watch for turn signals. Be ready to slow down or maneuver if a car pulls in front of you.

Head on Collisions
A head on collision is one of the most dangerous situations for a biker. Keep an eye on oncoming traffic, especially as it gets dark.
Tips:

• The National Safety Council stands by the four R's:
  1. Read the road
  2. Drive to the right
  3. Reduce your speed
  4. Ride off the road
• If an oncoming driver enters your lane, direct yourself toward the path of least resistance.

Lane Changing Collisions
The small structure of a motorcycle puts it at a higher risk of not being seen, especially on a highway dominated by semi-trucks. Proactive driving will reduce the risk of being involved in a lane changing collision. If you can't see the mirror or face of the driver, you are in their blind spot.

Tips:

• Never ride in a blind spot.
• Speed up or slow down to create space between yourself and other drivers.
• Anticipate lane changes. Turn signals, mirror checks and turning wheels are signs that a driver is planning to switch lanes.

Rear End Collisions
There are situations when a biker is caught off guard and collides with a vehicle in front of them. Stay vigilant on the road. Traffic conditions can change at any time.
Tips:

• Pay attention to traffic in front of you.
• Watch for brake lights.
• Keep a large distance between you and other vehicles to give yourself time to brake.

Corner Accidents
Be cautious when coming up on a corner. Debris on the road can cause your front tire to slip and lay down your bike. Turns can often be misleading, appearing wider than they really are. Be aware of your skill level and never take on a ride that you don't feel comfortable with.
Tips:

• Assess road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.
• Be cautious after large storms. Leaves or branches may have fallen, creating hazards around the corner.
• Take turns wide and slow.
• Trust your bike and lean into your turns.
• Stay calm and keep your eyes directed in front of you.

Foremost wants you to be safe! Though some accidents can't be prevented, it is important to do everything you can to keep yourself out of harm's way while you're on the road. Always be aware of your surroundings, and remember these tips when you ride!
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Whether you're a novice or a skilled motorcycle operator, there are going to be times when hazards on the road test your handling abilities. The best defense you have is the ability to react quickly and calmly to the hazards that appear in your path. Use our motorcycle riding safety tips below.

Before you go out riding, watch your local weather forecast. If there is a possibility of rain, snow, strong winds or other potentially dangerous weather on the way, you may want to leave your motorcycle parked where it is and choose a more appropriate method of transportation. But you can't always predict the weather, and there is always the possibility you could get caught in dangerous driving conditions.

Depending on the specific hazard or road conditions, there are some things you can do - and can practice beforehand - to ensure that you know how to react when these conditions arise. Depending on whether you're riding in slick conditions like rain, snow or wet leaves or trying to avoid hazards in the road such as potholes, debris or uneven pavement, here are a few motorcycle riding safety tips that could help you react in ways that will, keep you and your bike safe.

When Surfaces are Slick
There are several conditions that could cause a riding surface to become slippery and require you to react quickly. Some of these elements are liquids (such as oil spots) on the road, rain, wet leaves, sand, gravel, and snow and ice. Regardless of the cause of the slippery surface, here are some tips that might help you maneuver through these less-than-ideal conditions:

• Reduce your speed - A slippery surface will result in a longer stopping time. Slow down and pay close attention to changes in the driving surface.
• Use both brakes - Your front brake is responsible for three-quarters of your braking ability. Apply the front brake slowly and consistently without locking the wheel. Apply the rear brake in the same manner. Try not to brake mid-corner and remember the risk of sliding increases with acceleration.
• Avoid sudden moves - On a slippery surface, sudden movements will be exaggerated and could cause you to lose balance. Gradual, deliberate movements will help keep the bike steady and help you avoid skidding.
• Try to avoid the slickest areas - The center of the lane and intersections are where oil and other slippery substances tend to build up. To avoid these areas, ride where you're most likely to be seen AND avoid the hazard. Try to avoid the sides of the road where dirt, gravel and snow collect and cause low-traction conditions.

When Strong Winds Blow
Strong winds can catch you off-guard and throw you off balance when you're on a motorcycle ride. Opposed to other weather hazards, you can't see it coming. Be aware of weather conditions before you ride and take extra precautions when winds are extreme. Look ahead on the path you're riding and try to determine where the wind is going to catch you so you can plan for it. Some areas to watch out for include bridges, gaps between buildings and trees, open roads, coastal areas and gusts as large trucks pass. Try and figure out which way the wind is going to blow you and then do the following:

• Ride on the side of the lane that gives you the most room to maneuver.
• Keep your distance from other cars as well as the side and centerline of the road.
• Practice good posture. A good grip on the handle bars, a firm planting of your feet on the pegs and keeping your arms and shoulders flexible will help you maintain control and balance.
• Steer into the wind as much as possible. In addition, it's extremely important in windy conditions to be aware of debris such as branches that have blown into your path.

When Debris or Hazards Appear in Your Path
There are many times that hazards such as potholes, branches or items in the road might appear seemingly out of nowhere. It is very important that you practice avoiding hazards, and are able to react quickly and calmly when they do appear.

Often, you will need to make a quick turn to avoid the object or hazard. To do this, you should lean quickly in the direction you want to turn and press on the inside of the hand grip on the same side. This will cause the front wheel to move slightly in the opposite direction while still allowing the bike to move straight ahead to avoid the object without losing balance or throwing the bike too far off course.
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If you have to ride over an object, it is important that you:

• Hold onto the hand grips tightly.
• Keep a straight course.
• Rise up slightly on the foot pegs to absorb the shock.

Once you have driven over an object or hazard in the road, it's a good idea to pull over and inspect your bike and tires for any damage.
The same advice holds true when dealing with uneven surfaces like potholes, broken pavement or railroad tracks:

• Slow down.
• Hold onto the hand grips tightly.
• Keep a straight course.
• Rise up slightly on the foot pegs to absorb the shock.
• Try to cross the uneven surface at an angle.

SEE
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has developed this proactive defense-driving tool as an easy way to recall what steps you should take if a hazard crosses your path while you're riding your motorcycle. Keep “SEE” in mind when you're out riding as a good first step in deciding what you need to do.

S - Search around you for potential hazards. Look ahead, to the sides, in your mirrors and even over your shoulder.
E - Evaluate any possible hazards or dangers such as an oncoming car making a left turn, a driver speeding up behind you or a car waiting to pull onto the road.
E - Execute the action needed to avoid the hazard such as braking or turning.

If you take the steps to identify and react quickly and calmly to the hazards that you could face on the road, you are in a much better position to come out of a potentially dangerous situation unscathed. Nothing can take the place of practice when you're riding a motorcycle, so it's a good idea to spend some time trying to avoid obstacles or potential hazards in a safe environment. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course to prepare yourself for what you could face.

Motorcycle Insurance
In addition to doing what you can to protect your motorcycle and yourself from potential hazards out on the road, it's important that you have the right motorcycle insurance. You need an insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to your specific bike and lifestyle. Take a look at our coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote.
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Important things to look for when choosing a specialized motorcycle insurance policy:

• Safety Apparel Coverage to protect your investment in helmets, leathers, gloves and any other clothing designed to minimize injury in the event of an accident.
• Optional Equipment Coverage for chroming, custom painting, side cars or anything else that was not included as standard by the manufacturer.
• Optional Towing and Roadside Assistance in case your bikes breaks down and can't be ridden when you're away from home because you run out of gas, get a flat, or have other mechanical issues.
• Optional Replacement Cost Coverage on bikes purchased new and insured within 30 days.
• Flexible payment plans so you can choose the plan that best fits your budget.
• Deductible and coverage limit options.
• Premium discounts.

According to National Insurance Crime Bureau statistics, motor vehicle thefts are on the rise, and among the vehicles being targeted are motorcycles. It's one thing to have your property stolen, but if it is something you love and have become attached to, that is a different story altogether. And only 25% to 30% of motorcycles are recovered after theft. Read below to learn how to prevent motorcycle theft.

Thieves steal motorcycles to resell the whole bike or to strip it down and sell the parts. The fact that motorcycles are small and relatively easy to move makes them particularly vulnerable to theft. Smart thieves will find a way to steal your bike if they really want it, but there are things you can do to protect your investment and make your motorcycle less appealing to a thief. You can make it bothersome for them to try to steal it.

There are several relatively simple and inexpensive ways to help prevent motorcycle theft. One of these methods alone might not be enough to deter a determined thief, but using more than one – or better yet, several – of these methods just might make the difference in whether a thief stops at your house or keeps going.

Keep your bike out of sight
The best bet is to keep your motorcycle in a locked garage. For some people, this might not be an option. If you have to keep your bike parked outside, start by keeping it in a well-lit area and out of direct view from the street. It should be covered with a plain cover that is free of logos or brand names. If the thief can't tell by the cover what type of motorcycle is underneath, they may be more inclined to pass it over. In addition, you should keep the cover locked to the bike with a cable lock. However, this won't prevent a thief from picking up the whole bike and taking it, cover and all. That's why it is important to use this in conjunction with other security measures.

Lock your bike to a stationary object
Even if you have your bike in a locked garage when not in use, it is a good idea to also have it locked to something immovable. One method would be to cement a steel eye to the floor to put a chain or cable through. When using a chain or cable lock, be sure to loop it through the frame or another stable part of the bike. When you're out riding and leave your bike parked outside, always use your steering lock – this is your first step of defense. In addition, you should use two or more locks of different types. If possible, park your bike where you can see it and check on it periodically.

Make good lock choices
When choosing locks, it's not a good idea to spare expense. Choose good locks. Types of locks include serpentine link locks, u-locks and chains. Record key numbers and then file them off the locks if they are stamped on them. Locks attached to your bike should not touch the ground. If a lock is lying on the ground, it is easier for a thief to use a hard item to pound the lock until it breaks. Even if you keep your motorcycle in a locked garage, it's always a good idea to look around to make sure you're not providing a thief with the tools to dismantle your locks. There are usually a lot of tools in a garage and with time and determination, a thief will be able to remove the locks from your bike.

Other devices
There are several new mechanical devices that can help ensure you'll find your bike where you left it. Many dealers are now selling motorcycles with alarms as a standard feature, as well as similar anti-theft devices. An alarm alone is not an effective deterrent, but in combination with other methods, a wailing alarm is liable to make a thief think twice. Even if your motorcycle isn't equipped with an alarm, you can get stickers that say that there is an alarm installed and put them on your bike. You can also purchase anti-prying devices, pick-resistant mechanisms or you can install one or more kill switches to make the motorcycle impossible to start.

Common sense
The best way to protect your motorcycle from theft is to use common sense. Don't leave the keys in the ignition or anywhere within close proximity to the bike. Make sure that you choose the safest places possible to park or store your bike. And don't lock your bike down to something that can easily be moved or broken and assume it's still going to be there when you come back.

Why have motorcycle insurance?
In addition to being confident that you are doing what you can to prevent motorcycle theft, it's important that you have the right insurance. You need a motorcycle insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to your specific bike and lifestyle.
Important things to look for when choosing a specialized motorcycle insurance policy:

• Safety Apparel Coverage to protect your investment in helmets, leathers, gloves and any other clothing designed to minimize injury in the event of an accident.
• Optional Equipment Coverage for chroming, custom painting, side cars or anything else that was not included as standard by the manufacturer.
• Optional Towing and Roadside Assistance in case your bike breaks down and can't be ridden when you're away from home or you run out of gas, get a flat or have mechanical issues.
• Optional Replacement Cost Coverage on bikes purchased new and insured within 30 days.
• Flexible payment plans so you can choose the plan that best fits your budget.
• Deductible and coverage limit options.
• Premium discounts.

The Foremost Insurance Group of Companies provides all of these important coverages and more in our specialized Motorcycle insurance program. Learn more about coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote

After what felt like an endless winter, everything is slowly starting to thaw out and melt. Spring is one of my favorite times of the year, and as a new homeowner, I am starting to observe new things on my home that I need to inspect, and projects I want to tackle this summer. I purchased my home in the dead of winter with snow piled up on the exterior, so I couldn't fully see everything as much as I would have liked. Now that I have a clear view, it's time to start my spring maintenance checklist and inspect for any damage sustained during winter.

• Examine your roof. Inspect your shingles to see if any blew away or were damaged during winter. Shingles that are loose, cracked or buckled need to be replaced. If you come across any of these issues, call a professional to assess the damage.
• Check the gutters. Grab your gloves and clean out all of the leaves and debris in your gutters and downspouts. Then, inspect your gutters and make sure they aren't sagging. Make sure the downspouts are facing away from the foundation for proper draining.
• Inspect your driveway and other areas with concrete. Look over your driveway and sidewalks for any sign of cracks or movement. If you see any, you can fill them in with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk.
• Check the outside faucets and hoses. Turn on the water to make sure it's still running properly and place your thumb over the opening. If this stops the water flow, the water pressure may be too low and one of your pipes may be damaged. Call a professional for further assistance.
• Inspect windows and doors. Check for bent or broken hinges, and any cracks or holes. Depending on how serious the damage is, you can either replace or repair your door. If you have a screen door, you can usually buy a repair kit to fix any holes or tears so bugs can’t sneak through. If your windows look good, take the opportunity to wipe down the interior of the window sills if there is any dirt or mold present.
• Inspect your deck and fences. If you have a wooden fence, repair or replace any loose slats or rotted sections. For your deck, look for any signs of water stains or discoloration. Remove any loose or rusty nails, and make sure the railings and stairs are secure.
• Run your in-ground sprinkling system. Turn your sprinklers on to make sure they are working properly. Also look for any leaks or broken sprinkler heads, and readjust them if needed.
• Inspect your AC unit. Clean up any leaves or branches around the cooling unit, and change the filters. If you want a professional cleaning or a tune-up, you can call a qualified heating and cooling contractor.

Good luck and happy spring!

Intervention: it's time to take your stinky pup to the groomer! No matter what kind of dog you have, short-haired or long, a trip to the groomer is well worth the investment. Not only are they given a thorough cleaning, most groomers will also offer nail clippings, a hair trim or shave, and skin exfoliation.

But before you whisk your furry friend away on that car-bound adventure, there's a few things you should know. Our team did a Q&A with a local expert and she answered some of our burning questions.

How often should you bring your pet to the groomers?
We recommend that you check into the groomers every 4-6 weeks. Of course, this will depend on how long you want your dog's hair to be and how much care you'd like to do at home. Breeds with shorter hair (like labs and terriers) can sometimes go even longer depending on how much they shed. Show dogs should be bathed and brushed out once or twice a week to keep their coat and skin in tip top shape!

How should I transport my dog to the groomers?
Always be sure to have your pet on a leash and collar or harness when visiting the groomer, even if you think your pet is friendly. Different sights, sounds and smells can trigger unusual behavior, especially if there are other animals in the area. Keep a good hold on your dog to make sure everyone stays safe, including your pup!

How do I prepare a nervous dog to behave well?
If you see signs of nerves, bring your pet to meet the groomer first! Yes, this makes a second trip, but it will often help since they'll be comfortable with the groomer before any work gets done. For more tips on soothing your dog's anxiety, check out this great source from Vet Street.

Do not use human shampoo to bathe your dogs – the acidity can upset the balance of their skin

How can I find a good groomer in my area?
The breeder you got your dog from might have great recommendations for a groomer since they're familiar with the territory. Veterinarians are also a good resource, as are your friends. Ask around and feel free to switch until you find someone you really like.

How specific should I be when describing what I want to the groomer?
It doesn't hurt to describe what you would like your pet to look like after all is done at the groomers, but make sure to remember that every dog's hair is different. What looks adorable on one dog may look strange on yours.

How can I maintain in between trips?
Most pets will require some maintenance in between trips to the groomers. If they're getting smelly or their fur has tangles, a bath is a great start! After brushing your pet, go through with a comb and make sure you've brushed all the way to the skin to avoid matting.

Remember, grooming isn't just about the hair! Groomers also have the awesome ability to find health hazards owners would otherwise be oblivious to. Ear infections, a lump or bump, skin irritation and even enlarged limp-nodes are all things your groomer can help diagnose, which will keep your pup happy and make your life easier.

Want more expert advice for your pets? Check out these blogs written just for you!

Most bikers hang up their helmets when the temperature drops, but the dedicated crowd rides on. The key, they say, is staying warm and toasty.

It’s easier to stay warm while you ride than one might think. The temperature feels colder when you are piercing through the air at high speeds, but heated motorcycle accessories and good old fashioned layering will keep you comfortable during your fall ride. Try these tactics to stay warm this fall!

• Heated Seats: ​It is important to keep your body temperature at 98.6 degrees. If it drops any lower, you are at risk of hypothermia and will experience flu-like symptoms. The best way to prevent this is to heat your core with a heated seat. This can be added to your current bike, or purchased in a new bike if you are looking to upgrade.
• Heated Grips: Rider’s hands are subject to extreme cold. Sitting out front in the direct wind stream, fingers are often the first part of your body to show symptoms of cold-related issues. Heated grips are a reliable source of hand warmth, no matter the weather.
• Waterproof Gloves: Heated grips are great for the cold, but they won’t help much in wet weather. Rain or slush spray will soak your gloves, making them useless. Find gloves that are wool-lined with a weatherproof exterior to keep your hands warm and dry.
• Full-Face Helmet: For the colder months, you really need a full-face helmet. The enclosed design prevents wind from hitting your face. The best options may fit tight to provide proper insulation.
• Balaclava: Also known as a ski mask, this garment will provide warmth under your helmet to keep your head and face warm. Look for a balaclava made of wool, which is best for insulation.
• Long Underwear: Layering is a biker’s best friend! Wear wool long johns under your clothing to provide a base layer of warmth. Since they’re under your clothes, they won’t cramp your style.
• Rain Suit: A waterproof rain suit will protect your from the elements. Even if it is not raining, the material blocks the wind to keep you warm. It’s a good idea to keep a rain suit under your seat in case of emergencies. Rain or cold weather can pop up unexpectedly, especially during a long road trip.
• Newspaper: Speaking of unexpected weather… If you unexpectedly find yourself riding in the cold with no gear, stop at a gas station to pick up a newspaper. Put the paper under your jacket and pants to create a barrier from the wind. It’s a DIY trick and it won’t be perfect, but every little bit helps when you’re in a pinch.
• Neck Sock: As you layer up the rest of your body, remember to keep your neck warm. Body heat will escape through any inch of skin left uncovered, so bundle up with a neck sock under your helmet.
• Feet Socks: Socks are super important. Toes, like fingers, are one of the first parts of your body to feel the cold. Invest in thick wool socks to trap in the heat.
• Heated Gear: Jackets and gloves can come equipped with internal heating systems. If you get cold easily, this is a good option for you. These items use power from the bike, so make sure your engine has enough power to handle any accessories.
• Wet Bags: Carry extra plastic bags with you to separate wet clothes on long trips. You don’t want your entire pack getting wet during the ride. Some packs come equipped with wet garment dividers, but large plastic bags will do just fine.
• Blankets: Pack a blanket in case you run into an emergency. Even if you just stop to warm up, an extra blanket will help keep you warm.

Gear can only do so much in protecting you during your cold-weather rides. Make sure to eat before you head out. A full belly kick starts your metabolism, creating energy and promoting blood flow, ultimately keeping your body temperature higher for longer. If you ever feel too cold during your ride, get off the road and find somewhere warm to rest. You want to be in the right headspace and have the physical readiness to take on the journey.
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Now that you know how to stay warm, get the most out of your bike with year-round riding! Just remember to be safe and, most importantly, have fun.

A burglary occurs approximately every 15 seconds in the United States. Home security has become an important issue for everyone, no matter where you live. While there's no foolproof way to stop every break-in, many burglaries are preventable. Keep in mind that burglars search for easy targets.

Here are some security measures that may force burglars to look elsewhere:

Use the right locks and solid doors

• Choose a single-cylinder dead bolt lock backed by a reinforcing strike-plate with three-inch screws. The dead bolt should be at least one inch thick and extend at least one inch into the doorframe when locked. Standard door locks may not be enough to deter experienced thieves. For example, a thief can open key-in-the-knob spring bolt locks by pushing back the lock bolt with a credit card or similar flexible object.
• Use solid core or metal clad entrance doors along with sturdy door frames firmly attached to your home. Many intruders enter residences by physically destroying lightweight hollow core doors and flimsy door frames.
• Be sure entrance doors have wide-angle peepholes or view grills so you can see visitors without opening the door. Ask anyone who comes to your door for identification before allowing them inside.

Secure sliding patio doors and windows:

• For best protection, use a bolt lock.
• Second choice would be a dowel or pipe in the slider track. This helps, but isn't perfect. Thieves can bypass them by lifting the doors or windows out of their slide channels. You can help prevent this by tightening adjustment screws to eliminate "play" in a door or window.

Protect your home with proper lighting:

• Keep entryways, pathways, stairwells, porches, yards and parking areas well lit.
• Mount lights up high so burglars can't easily unscrew bulbs.

Don't give thieves an easy way in:

• Keep shrubs trimmed away from your home. Prune back tree limbs, particularly from upper windows and porch roofs.
• Keep your garage locked, along with any storage sheds on your property, especially if they contain tools or ladders thieves can use to break into your home. Use a quality dead bolt lock here, too, if you can.
• Invest in a heavy-duty gun-safe if you have firearms in your home. This will keep guns out of criminal-hands, as well as away from children, friends and relatives who don't know how to handle firearms safely.

Apparently I fell off the face of the planet when it comes to car seat safety. Despite reading all the NHTSA tips for car seats, doing the safety checks, and experiencing Michigan winters my whole life, I have never, ever heard of winter car seat safety. If have a bundled up little one, this is a must-read and must-share on your Facebook page to educate other parents.

The rule to remember: No bulky coats on children in car seats.

First, let me divulge a few of the (brutally honest) thoughts that came to mind when I heard this:

1. This article must be written by a person from a mild weather state. There's no way in zero degree weather I'd let my kids go without a coat!
2. But I wear a coat with my seatbelt and I'm fine…
3. So I'm supposed to get my kids out of the car and bundle them up in the…parking lot?? This sounds like such a hassle to me.

​While I quickly thought of every reason why this was a bad idea, I landed on the one reason why this was a good idea: safety always comes first. The fact is, a child may be buckled in tightly with their winter coat on, but in an accident, the impact of pressure would compact the bulk of the coat making the harness too loose to keep the child safe. So, I called my local fire department and got these important tips that are pretty simple and much more do-able than I imagined.

Here's a simple way to test the bulk of your child's coat:

1. Put the coat on your child and buckle them up, tightening the straps until you can't pinch the harness with your fingers.
2. Undo the straps without loosening them and remove your child from the seat.
3. Take your child's coat off, put them back in the seat and fasten the harness.
4. If you can pinch the straps, then the coat is too bulky to wear in the car seat.

The winter coat rule applies to children in car seats and for children in boosters if the seat belt system in the car does not automatically lock when the brakes are applied.

Keep them warm, and safe.

If you find your child's coat is too bulky to buckle them in safely, here are some alternate options to keep your child warm:

• Put their coat on backward, like a blanket.
• Use an actual blanket.
• Use a thinner coat for car rides. Or if your child has layers in their coat, use the thinner layer for car rides and add the other layer when you go outdoors.
• Heat your car up ahead of time and let them ride comfortably without a coat.

For all the other snow-state mommies and daddies like me who didn't know this…now you do! So, test the bulk of your child's coat and keep them safe in their car seat this winter. Foremost encourages all parents to be safe while driving, especially with a child passenger.

I apologize if you're holding on to your last days of warmth, but winter will be here before you know it! If you travel year-round in an RV and are looking forward to camping in snowy weather, be prepared for poor road conditions. Here are three tips to keep you, your family, and your RV safe during wintertime travel:

1. Get Acquainted With Rear-Wheel Drive
   You might have to change your driving habits as most motor homes are rear-wheel drive. With snowfall and ice, it's not uncommon to start sliding. If this happens, slightly pump the brakes to regain control of the vehicle. Most importantly, gently slow down and leave at least three times the amount of space you normally would between you and the vehicle ahead.
2. Be Prepared to Pull Over
   Motor homes and travel trailers can be difficult to handle in good weather. Add winter driving conditions to the mix and it becomes even more challenging. Give yourself ample time to get to your destination and be prepared to spend a couple of nights off the road in case there is a snow or ice storm. You may lose time on the road, but safety is key for you, your travelers and your vehicle.
3. Pulling a Trailer
   Travel trailers have challenges of their own once the weather gets cold and the snow starts to fall. It's important to stay calm if you lose control of the wheel. Try to avoid making sharp turns and abrupt stops. If you see your trailer fishtailing behind you, gently apply only the trailer brakes to reduce the sway. Ideally, you should stay off the road if any snow or ice is present.

We want you to experience traveling through the winter safely.

Transitioning from a home where you have roots in one place to a full-time life on the road is a drastic change, but there are many things that draw people to this “nomad” lifestyle. It could be the flexibility, the love of traveling, or maybe you just want to get out of your comfort zone and try something new! Whatever the reason may be, if you’re preparing to be an RV full-timer, kudos for having the courage to embrace this exciting lifestyle change.

We know it can be overwhelming to think about the details involved with living full-time in an RV, and your choice to welcome the open road may seem impulsive to others, but that’s okay. Life is short, and who knows … you may end up regretting not doing this sooner!

Here are some tips to help you prepare for living in an RV full-time.

Become a Minimalist.​
Adapting a minimalist lifestyle often requires major changes. You’re probably going from a normal-sized home to a roughly 270 square foot space, which forces you to ask: “What do I really need?” To determine this, start by writing down everything you want to bring, then write another list of everything you actually need. This will help you visualize and prioritize your possessions.
Bring all the necessities, of course – clothes, toiletries, shoes, cookware, etc. However, you won’t nee
d 10 pairs of boots, or the many t-shirts that have been sitting in your drawers for 2+ years, or 20 drinking glasses that you currently have in your kitchen.

You may need to make some tough decisions, but take this opportunity to de-clutter your belongings. Make a “take” pile and a “donation” pile. It’s always a good idea, even if you aren’t planning to RV full-time!

Go Paperless.
Life on the road means you won’t be home to pick up your mail and see if you received any bills. Move all of your bills (cell phone, medical, credit cards, auto insurance, etc.) to automated billing so you don’t need to worry about it. Once you make the switch, you should get all notifications for your bills via email moving forward. Plus, this helps save the environment!

Sell or Keep Your Home?
This brings us to our next question – will you make the commitment to sell your home and have your RV be your only residence? This depends on how much you plan to travel throughout the year. Also, can you afford to keep your home while traveling? You will still have your mortgage payments, maintenance on the home and other obligations. If you decide to keep your home, there’s always the option of renting it out so you won’t have to worry about any mortgage payments. If you don’t start renting, make sure you have someone regularly stopping by your home to get the mail and take care of any maintenance needed as the seasons go by.

If you do decide to sell your home or cancel a lease, you will need to choose a domicile state and receive mail. Getting a domicile means you are choosing a state for your legal residence. This state will be listed on your driver’s license, where you purchase your health insurance, where you can vote and where you will accept mail. (There are lots of mail-forwarding services that will set you up with a street address so you can officially establish residency. This is helpful because a P.O. Box address will not be accepted as your legal residence). The best states for full-time RVer domiciles are Texas, Florida or South Dakota.* People usually choose these states because they are income tax-free!

Selling your home will also allow more financial freedom for your RV travels! Get that estate sale ready, or find a storage unit to put all of your furniture in, just in case you ever want a break from the RV life.

Determine a Monthly Budget.
You may think you’ll be saving a lot of money when you live on the road – but you will be surprised. Since your expenses will be drastically different from when you lived in a home, you need to budget and keep track of everything you spend. Things like campsite fees, eating out frequently, gas and unexpected RV repairs can add up. Once you get a good idea of how much you’re spending each month, you can adjust your budget accordingly.

Purchase Full-Time RV Insurance.
Since your RV will be your permanent residence, you need a specific type of insurance coverage called “Full-Time RV Insurance.” You will be covered against liabilities, Additional Living Expenses, medical expenses in the case of an accident and more! Contact one of our local agents today to get more information on how you can get covered, so you can enjoy your travels across the U.S., or start an RV quote now!

Stay Connected with Family and Friends.
Communicate with your friends and family on a regular basis. (They will miss you!) It’s also a good idea to let a few people know your current location and where you’re headed next on a regular basis, just in case of an emergency. To make your loved ones feel like they’re part of your adventure, post pictures frequently on social media or send them via text or email. It will let everyone know you and your companions are safe, and also allows you to stay connected with everyone even when you’re not physically with them.

Enjoy Every Minute.
Living life on the road is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will see amazing things, meet one-of-a-kind people and make the best memories. Don’t take it for granted! With traveling, you will always run into some bumps in the road – but that’s part of the journey. Don’t let it discourage your long-term goals. You’re not tied down to a routine now, so enjoy the freedom and independence that comes with RVing full-time. Stay safe and happy travels from Foremost!